Richmond'S adopted ship returns to UK shores this weekend for the first time in seven months.

The Type 23 Duke frigate, HMS Richmond, docks in Portsmouth today following a lengthy deployment in the Mediterranean.

The frigate was part of a Nato force, which gathered in Naples in January, her duties taking her off the coast of Georgia, where the crew linked up with units from the navies of Romania and Bulgaria.

HMS Richmond also joined the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Crete, hosting a reception for 120 veterans who saw action during the campaign.

However, one of the highlights of the trip for a small party of 19 of the crew was a two-day expedition to Mount Olympus.

Commanding officer, Commander Alistair Adams said: "It has been a long haul, but the ship and her company have done exceptionally well. Everyone will have some good memories and some rich experiences to take home with them.''